DNR warns Michigan residents and pet owners to protect themselves against bird flu

By Rachel Greco

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DNR warns Michigan residents and pet owners to protect themselves against bird flu

In light of the ongoing highly pathogenic avian influenza cases, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds residents to protect themselves and their domestic animals.

HPAI, also known as bird flu, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that infects and sometimes kills birds and mammals. Since December 2024, wild bird mortality has increased throughout the state, particularly among Canada geese, trumpeter swans, and scavenging birds.

This is the first time the disease has been found in a Michigan poultry flock since May 2024, when the state handled its largest bird flu outbreak. It is also the second instance of the virus in a commercial poultry facility in Ottawa County since the disease was first discovered in Michigan in 2022.

“While waterfowl hunters are much more likely to encounter wild birds, it’s important for all Michiganders to understand the health risks that bird flu can pose to wildlife, humans and domestic animals,” said Mitch Marcus, supervisor of DNR Wildlife Health. “The virus has been identified in Michigan’s wild birds and mammals, as well as domestic cats, dairy cattle and poultry.”

The risk of HPAI infecting humans is low, but it can still occur, particularly in those who come into contact with infected animals or material. Last spring, two human cases of influenza A (H5N1) were reported among Michigan farmworkers.

Wild birds can carry HPAI without appearing ill. As a precaution, the DNR advises residents not to harvest or handle sick or deceased wild birds.

If you come into close contact with contaminated birds or surfaces, keep an eye out for symptoms like a 100-degree fever, chills, sore throat, shortness of breath, eye irritation, runny or stuffy nose, and body aches for 10 days.

To help prevent the spread of bird flu, hunters and pet owners should follow these guidelines:

  • Cook all meat to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to kill viruses.
  • Remains from processed birds should be buried on-site or double-bagged and disposed of with household trash.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth when handling wild birds.
  • Wear rubber or disposable gloves when handling and cleaning wild birds, and wash hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleanser, even if they are not visibly soiled.
  • Thoroughly clean and disinfect all knives, equipment and surfaces that come into contact with wild birds.
  • Do not eat, drink or smoke while handling or cleaning wild birds.
  • Keep domestic animals away from wild birds, dead waterfowl, hunting apparel, and footwear that has come into contact with wild birds or their mucous, saliva, or feces.
  • Shower after the hunt and before tending to domestic animals.
  • Wash hands immediately before and after caring for animals.
  • Do not share equipment or other supplies between premises.

If you observe a die-off of six or more waterfowl, gulls or shorebirds, report it through the DNR Eyes in the Field online tool or contact your local DNR field office.

Rachel Greco

Rachel Greco covers life in US County, including the communities of Grand Ledge, Delta Township, Charlotte and US Rapids. But her beat extends to local government, local school districts and community events in communities that surround Lansing. Her goal is to tell compelling stories about the area that matter to local readers.

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